Mali’s first cardinal said to foster regional peace, understanding

Cardinal-elect Jean Zerbo of Bamako, Mali, the first from the western Africa nation, will use his position to ease the multiple crises facing sub-Saharan regions, an aide said, despite new media accusations linking him to a financial scandal.Theodore Togo, secretary-general of Caritas Mali, said Cardinal-elect Zerbo’s success in building interfaith relations and helping ease tensions between the government and rebel forces has been positive for the nation of 17 million.

“But our own problems are linked to this region’s evolving crises, and we’re part of a wider picture. What Christians can do for peace and justice here also have consequences elsewhere,” Togo said.